Mercedes Benz 280 SE 3.5 Cabriolet
Highlights
Data & Facts
Model History
The elegant coupé and cabriolet of the W111 series was first introduced in 1961 as the 220 SEb Coupé. The simple yet impressive design penned by Friedrich Geiger and Paul Bracq marked a turning point in Mercedes styling away from the baroque opulence of the 1950s. There was a lot more hand-made work in the small-series coupes and convertibles than in the W111 sedans.
The series was continuously technically optimized. On the powertrain side, the 150-hp 2.5-liter engine of the 250 SE was introduced in 1965. Another new feature was the hydropneumatic compensating spring on the rear axle, which was fitted in place of the previous coil spring and kept the level of the body constant regardless of the load. In January 1968, it was succeeded by the 280 SE, which featured a newly developed 2.8-liter six-cylinder engine with 160 hp.
In 1969, the 3.5-liter V8 engine with 200 hp made its debut as a completely new development. This was accompanied by a flatter engine hood and lower radiator grille, which led to the (unofficial) designation "flat radiator" as opposed to "high radiator". In this way, Mercedes demonstrated what was technically feasible at the time and substantiated its claim to be the designer and manufacturer of the "best automobile". Incidentally, this series was very popular with many celebrities and stars as a sophisticated coupé and cabriolet.
Model History
The elegant coupé and cabriolet of the W111 series was first introduced in 1961 as the 220 SEb Coupé. The simple yet impressive design penned by Friedrich Geiger and Paul Bracq marked a turning point in Mercedes styling away from the baroque opulence of the 1950s. There was a lot more hand-made work in the small-series coupes and convertibles than in the W111 sedans.
The series was continuously technically optimized. On the powertrain side, the 150-hp 2.5-liter engine of the 250 SE was introduced in 1965. Another new feature was the hydropneumatic compensating spring on the rear axle, which was fitted in place of the previous coil spring and kept the level of the body constant regardless of the load. In January 1968, it was succeeded by the 280 SE, which featured a newly developed 2.8-liter six-cylinder engine with 160 hp.
In 1969, the 3.5-liter V8 engine with 200 hp made its debut as a completely new development. This was accompanied by a flatter engine hood and lower radiator grille, which led to the (unofficial) designation "flat radiator" as opposed to "high radiator". In this way, Mercedes demonstrated what was technically feasible at the time and substantiated its claim to be the designer and manufacturer of the "best automobile". Incidentally, this series was very popular with many celebrities and stars as a sophisticated coupé and cabriolet.